Learning To Play: Fetch

By Claire F.

Fetch is a fun game to play with your dog and a great way to teach them some new tricks like Drop It! It's also a fun way to help our pups burn some energy with minimal effort on our part.

Unfortunately, most dogs starting off don't understand they're supposed to bring the toy back to you and suddenly what was supposed to be a game of fetch turns into a game of chase.

Here are some easy steps to teach your dog fetch:

1. Get 2 of your dogs favorite toys (Toy A and Toy B).

2. Toss Toy A about 6 feet. When the dog picks it up, show them you have Toy B.

3. When they come back bring Toy B close to their mouth and say "Drop It" as you take Toy A out of their mouth. 

4. Toss Toy B 6 feet and repeat.

Every time you play fetch with your dog, try gradually increasing the distance you throw the toy. This will encourage your dog to go farther to catch the toy while understanding they need bring it back to keep playing.